Abstract: A nucleic acid construct comprising a chimeric promoter sequence and a cloning site for insertion of a coding sequence in operable linkage with the chimeric promoter, wherein the chimeric promoter sequence comprises: (a) a hCMV immediate early promoter sequence; (b) exon 1 and at least a part of exon 2 of the hCMV major immediate early gene; and (c) a heterologous intron provided in place of the intron A region of the hCMV major immediate early gene.

Abstract: Reagents useful in nucleic acid immunization techniques are described. More particularly, adjuvanted genetic vaccine compositions are described, as are methods of using those compositions for inducing an enhanced immune response against a selected antigen.

Abstract: Reagents useful in nucleic acid immunization techniques are described. More particularly, adjuvanted genetic vaccine compositions are described, as are methods of using those compositions for inducing an enhanced immune response against a selected antigen.

Abstract: Methods of eliciting an immune response in a subject by administering one or more large genomic DNA fragments are provided. Also provided are methods of identifying sequences encoding antigenic polypeptides. Also provided are vaccine compositions comprising one or more large genomic DNA fragments.

Abstract: Recombinant nucleic acid molecules are described. The molecules have a sequence or sequences encoding at least two M. tuberculosis antigens. Vectors and compositions containing these molecules are also described. In addition, compositions containing a cocktail of recombinant nucleic acid molecules having a sequence or sequences encoding one or more M. tuberculosis antigens are described. Methods of eliciting an immune response using these molecules and compositions are also described.

Abstract: Recombinant nucleic acid molecules are described. The molecules have a sequence or sequences encoding an antigen from Bacillus anthracis. Vectors and compositions containing these molecules are also described. Methods for eliciting an immune response using these molecules and compositions are also described.

Abstract: Recombinant nucleic acid molecules are described. The molecules have a first sequence encoding a Hepatitis B virus core antigen and a second sequence encoding at least one T cell epitope inserted within the first sequence. Vectors and compositions containing these molecules are also described. Methods of eliciting an immune response using these molecules are also described.

Abstract: A gel-forming free-flowing powder suitable for use as a vaccine is prepared by spray-drying an aqueous suspension that contains an antigen adsorbed to an aluminum salt adjuvant, a saccharide, an amino acid or a salt thereof, and a colloidal substance. Processes for forming these powder compositions are also described, as well as methods of using the compositions in a vaccination procedure.

Abstract: Methods for generating an immune response at a mucosal surface are described. Compositions suitable for use in the methods for generating an immune response at a mucosal surface are also described. In addition, methods for treating or preventing a disease caused by the entry of a pathogen into the body of a subject via a mucosal surface are provided.

Abstract: Particles coated with a therapeutic agent are deposited onto the inner surface of a length of tubing using a process which includes introducing the particles into the tubing while the tubing is rotating horizontally. An apparatus for performing the process is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sample delivery module for use in conjunction with a particle acceleration apparatus includes a fitting for connecting the sample delivery module to the apparatus. The sample delivery module provides a particle acceleration path which includes a portion adapted to receive a sample of particles coated with a biological material, a particle acceleration chamber coaxial with, and in fluid communication, with the cartridge chamber, and a substantially conical exit nozzle coaxial with and in fluid communication with the particle acceleration chamber. In use, a gas stream causes sample particles to be entrained therein and accelerated through the particle acceleration chamber and the exit nozzle toward a target.

Abstract: In an approach to genetic therapy for treating tumors, a genetic construction encoding the p35 and p40 subunits of the cytokine IL-12 is delivered into cells of individuals in need of therapy so as to express IL-12 in cells and to cause regression of established tumors.

Abstract: A gas driven apparatus for accelerating particles coated with a genetic material into a target comprises a reservoir for releasably retaining a gas at a sufficiently high pressure to detach the particles from the surface of a sample cartridge and to carry the particles through the apparatus toward the target. When leaving the apparatus, the particles entrained in the gas stream pass through a substantially conical exit nozzle which causes the pattern of distribution of the particles to greatly expand. Methods for using the apparatus and for preparing the sample cartridges are also described.

Abstract: A method for depositing particles coated with biological substances onto the concave inner surface of a length of tubing includes the steps of preparing a uniform suspension of coated particles, introducing the particles into the tubing, placing the tubing into a generally horizontal position, removing the evaporable liquid after the particles have settled, and drying the particles. When dry, the tubing is cut into sample cartridges of appropriate length for use in a particle acceleration instrument.An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Particles coated with biological substances are deposited onto the concave inner surface of a length of tubing by a process which includes preparing a uniform suspension of coated particles and introducing the particles into the tubing while rotating horizontally. Then the speed of rotation is increased to drive the particles out of suspension and against the inner surface. After particle separation, the rotational speed is decreased and a gas is passed through the tubing to blow out the separated liquid. Next both the speed of rotation and the gas flow rate are increased to dry the particles that have been deposited against the inner surface of the tubing. An apparatus for performing the method also is disclosed.